UB40 Tickets

About UB40

UB40 originated in Birmingham, England, in 1978, emerging from the city’s multicultural working-class neighbourhoods, which shaped their musical identity. The band’s name, derived from a UK unemployment benefits form—Unemployment Benefit, Form 40—reflects their connection to the everyday struggles faced by the working class and highlights their social consciousness. The founding members, Ali Campbell, Robin Campbell, Brian Travers, Earl Falconer, Jimmy Brown, Norman Hassan, Michael Virtue, and Astro, came together with a shared passion for music and a desire to address important social issues through their art.

The band’s debut album, Signing Off, released in 1980, marked a pivotal moment in British music. Recorded in a modest bedsit, the album combined politically charged lyrics with catchy reggae rhythms, propelling it into the UK Top 5. Tracks from the album resonated with listeners, thanks to their authentic portrayal of societal challenges like racism and poverty, and brought reggae influences to a broader audience. As the 1980s progressed, UB40’s sound evolved into a smoother, more melodic style, leading to widespread acclaim and numerous hits.

One of their most iconic tracks, a cover of “Red Red Wine,” originally written by Neil Diamond, became a global sensation in 1983, topping charts in both the UK and the U.S. This success solidified UB40’s status as a leading reggae-pop act and helped to popularise reggae music in mainstream culture. Their other hits, including “Kingston Town,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and “I Got You Babe” (featuring Chrissie Hynde), showcased their unique blend of reggae with accessible pop melodies, further broadening their appeal.

UB40’s Labour of Love album series, released in the 1980s and 1990s, featured reggae classics sung by the band, introducing younger audiences to the genre’s roots while selling millions of copies worldwide. Their impressive track record includes over 70 million records sold and more than 50 chart entries in the UK, establishing them as one of the most commercially successful reggae bands in history.

UB40 has been a pivotal part of the music scene for over four decades, known for their vibrant live performances that promote joy and community. Their notable tours for albums like Labour of Love and Promises and Lies highlight their dedication to connecting with fans. Despite some criticism, the band has achieved significant accolades, including Grammy and Brit Award nominations, and their unique blend of reggae and pop has brought reggae music to a wider audience. UB40’s lasting influence is marked by their messages of love and inclusivity, cementing their status as a key figure in British music history.

UB40 Tour tickets

UB40’s upcoming UK tour is set to be a celebration of their legacy, their culture, and impact in some of the country’s most premier venues. Having made a name for themselves with their vibrant live shows, fans can expect a live experience like no other. Expect to hear all of the hits, plus deeper cuts, with support from Maxi Priest and Aswad.

UB40 Show Dates